The Thomas Telegraph | Vol. 7, Issue 6 – March 21, 2025

Vol. 7, Issue 5 – 3.8.2025

Dear Friends,

Please see the latest updates on district initiatives and citywide services:

Hackberry & Boone Park Detention Project
On Tuesday, March 27, Houston Public Works and my office hosted a community meeting to discuss the upcoming $15 million drainage and park improvement project set to begin in Winter 2026 and finish in 2027. We had a record turnout, but if you missed it, you can watch the full meeting here: Watch Now.

Westchase Camden Park Grand Opening
Join the Westchase Management District and community partners to celebrate the grand opening of Camden Park, the newest addition to Houston’s westside!
Date: April 12 (see details)

Heritage House in Piney Point
Exciting news! The Piney Point Heritage House Reconstruction Project is set to appear on the April 2 City Council agenda for approval. This brings us one step closer to realizing a vision over a decade in the making. Special thanks to Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher for securing $573,300 in funding. The next step is finalizing the agreement between the City of Houston and HUD.

Hurricane Beryl Home Repairs
Rebuilding Together Houston is expanding its home repair services to Harris County to assist low-income homeowners still recovering from Hurricane Beryl (July 2024). If you or someone you know needs critical home repairs, call 713-659-2511 to confirm eligibility.

HUD Annual Action Plan – Your Input Needed
Over the next five years, Houston’s Housing and Community Development Department will receive $250 million in federal grants for housing and community development projects. We want your input on how these funds should be used! Attend a community meeting to share your thoughts. Clickhere for details.

Legislative Update: Faith & Affordable Housing
At the Inaugural Faith & Affordable Housing Summit last October, we explored ways for faith leaders to repurpose their property for affordable housing. Now, Senate Bill 854, filed by Senators Middleton (R) and West (D), could impact how cities regulate multifamily and mixed-use development on religious land. This bill may unlock new redevelopment opportunities for underserved communities. Stay informed: Learn More About SB 854.

Disparity Study – Business Classification Changes
The City of Houston’s Disparity Study was recently discussed in a three-hour Economic Development Committee meeting. A key recommendation suggests that Hispanic and Asian-owned businesses in construction and professional services shift from the Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) designation to Small Business Enterprise (SBE) due to over-representation in those sectors. More updates to come—watch the full meeting here: Meeting Link

Annual Water Rate Increase
April 1st the City of Houston water users will see an automatic adjustment that is required by bond holders and partially addresses the rising costs of water. Houston increased water and wastewater rates in 2010 and most recently in 2021. Please see the notice here and if you are experiencing water bills that are outside your normal fee – don’t hesitate to email districtf@houstsontx.gov or call 832-393-3002 (providing a copy of your last two water bills can be helpful to expedite administrative review).

Save The Date:
March 21st – 50+1 International Celebration with the Consul General of Mexico, Maria Elena Orantes
March 29th – Black Family Wellness Expo hosted by The Links Incorporated – Finnigan Park
April 19th – Expungement Workshop with Harris County District Attorney and District F resident, Sean Teare – Alief Neighborhood Center

Thank you for keeping the Westside, the best side!

Sincerely,

Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas
Houston City Council, District F

HOT TEAM UPDATES

Total Work Orders: 19
Hotspot of the Week: 11500 Pender (recurring)
Total Man Hours Worked: 36
Tree Waste: 700 lbs.
Mattresses: 2
Furniture Waste: 9 pieces
Tires: 4
Trash Debris: 800 lbs.
Shopping Carts: 1
Bandit Signs: 126
Landscaping: None
System: 2 pending illegal dump sites and 0 pending missed yard waste, with 3 pending landscaping locations as of 3.18.2025

America’s Housing Comeback: NLC Congressional City Conference

On Monday, March 10, Council Member Tiffany Thomas was honored to moderate a panel discussion during the National League of Cities Congressional City Conference. The panel session “America’s Housing Comeback: Partnerships and Strategies for Economic Prosperity” shared strategies with an audience of approximately 1,500 city and town officials.

The discussion emphasized the critical link between housing stability, workforce development, and long-term economic prosperity, offering actionable insights for local leaders nationwide.

16th Annual March on Crime Luncheon

On Thursday, March 13, 2025, Dr. Darlene Breaux proudly represented the Office of Council Member Tiffany Thomas at the Southwest Management District’s 16th Annual March on Crime Luncheon, held at Houston Christian University.

This impactful event featured powerful addresses from Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare and Houston Police Chief Noe Diez and celebrated the outstanding contributions of the Houston Police Department, Houston Fire Department, and others who work tirelessly to ensure public safety. A solemn tribute was also made to honor the Families of the Fallen.

Alief ISD Principals of the Year

We proudly celebrated Alief ISD’s 2024-2025 Principals of the Year for their exceptional leadership and dedication to our students.

Zansia Soliz, Principal of Chancellor Elementary, was named Elementary Principal of the Year and Cassandra Dyson, Principal of Youngblood Intermediate, earned Secondary Principal of the Year for their innovative leadership and commitment to student success.

Congratulations to these outstanding educators for shaping a brighter future for our community!

Celebrating 160 Years of Faith and Service

On Sunday, March 16, Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas proudly presented a proclamation to honor Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church on its 160th anniversary.

Since 1865, PRMBC has been a steadfast beacon of faith, hope, and service in Houston, thriving under the leadership of visionary pastors, including Rev. Daymond A. Wilkins. From its beginnings in Piney Point to its current home on Jeanetta Road, the church has positively impacted generations through its mission of spiritual growth and community service.

Congratulations to PRMBC for 160 years of inspiring faith and unity!

Bosses in Heels: Celebrating Women in Leadership

On March 16, Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas attended the 6th Annual Bosses in Heels Awards & Networking Brunch, hosted by Houston Millennials’ Executive Women’s Committee.

The event featured many honored leaders for breaking barriers, inspiring change, and exemplifying empowerment during International Women’s Month. Congratulations to all honorees for paving the way for future generations.

Celebrating 50+1 International Day

On March 21, Council Member Tiffany D. Thomas presented a proclamation recognizing 50+1 International Day during the kickoff of the Third International Congress at Houston City Hall.

Founded in Mexico, 50+1 International empowers women and girls by connecting professionals across fields to advance leadership and decision-making opportunities. Under the leadership of María Elena Orantes, Consul General of Mexico in Houston, the organization continues to champion gender equity and inspire global change.

The Council Member proudly supports 50+1’s mission and their dedication to fostering equality, diversity, and opportunity for women worldwide.

WORK AUTHORIZATIONS

Pending Work Authorization No. 3 was issued to remove and replace sidewalk with new concrete wheelchair ramps at Golden Tee CT. and Golden Tee Ln. Construction has been scheduled to commence on March 17, 2025, and is anticipated to end by April 16, 2025. This project has a cost estimate of $42,000. Residents may coordinate any concerns with the project manager at 832-395-3372. Click on the image above for more details of the project area and map.

Pending Work Authorization No. 10 was issued to remove and replace sidewalk with new concrete sidewalk, driveways and wheelchair ramps on both sides of Sharpview Drive, from Baneway Drive to Leawood Blvd. and Leawood Blvd. at Triola Lane. Construction has been scheduled to commence on March 3, 2025, and is anticipated to end by May 10, 2025. This project has a cost estimate of $193,990. Residents may coordinate any concerns with the project manager at 832-395-3372. Click on the image above for more details of the project area and map.

Pending Work Authorization No. 8 was issued to remove and replace sidewalk with new concrete sidewalk, driveways and wheelchair ramps on South side of Carvel Lane near Baneway Drive. Construction was scheduled to commence on March 3, 2025, and anticipated to be completed by March 13, 2025. This project has a cost estimate of $20,000. Residents may coordinate any concerns with the project manager at 832-395-3372. Click on the image above for more details of the project area and map.

CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

Read City Council Agenda

Watch City Council Meetings

5. RECOMMENDATION from Director Houston Public Works for approval of final contract amount of $1,384,048.16 and acceptance of work on contract with JERDON ENTERPRISE, L.P. for Traffic Signal Work Orders FY-2017 – 2.17% under the original contract amount and under the 5% contingency amount.

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS